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🧳 What to Pack for Puerto Rico in January

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Heading to Puerto Rico this January? 🌴✨ Here’s exactly what to pack for a stylish, comfortable, and stress-free trip -curated especially for solo female travelers. 

From breezy linen dresses and reef-safe sunscreen to compact safety gear and tropical-ready tech, this packing list blends style with strategy. January in Puerto Rico means warm days (75–85°F) and balmy nights - so think light layers, beach-to-dinner... 

In this guide, you’ll find: 
👗 Outfit staples for coastal adventures + café exploring 
🎒 Must-have safety and travel accessories 
☀️ Beauty + wellness picks for tropical weather 
📸 Gear that helps you capture your solo moments

All items are personally curated from my blog post “What to Pack for Puerto Rico in January: A Solo Female Travel Guide.” Use this list to plan your suitcase like a pro and travel boldly - because confidence looks beautiful on you. 💫 

#PuertoRicoPackingList #SoloFemaleTravel #TravelEssentials #CoastlineAndCastles #TropicalTravel #WinterVacation #WhatToPack
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Clothing & Outfits: Coastal Comfort Meets Confidence

Light, breathable, and effortlessly chic - pack pieces that move from sunny mornings to salsa-filled nights. Think linen sundresses, airy shorts, and flowy skirts in sea-inspired colors. Add a light jacket or wrap for cool evenings and a wide-brimmed...

 
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This super comfortable (with pockets of course) sundress definitely needs to be a Puerto Rico wardrobe necessity.  Lots of color and patterns to choose from.  Wear during the day with walking sandals and dress it up at night with espadrilles and a denim jacket.
V Neck Sleeveless Dress
 
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If you aren't a fan of the shorter sundresses, I 100% recommend a maxi dress.  Just like the shorter sundress, pair it with hiking sandals during the day and dress it up in the evening with espadrilles and a denim jacket for dinner and dancing. Oh…. and it has pockets!!!
Sleeveless Maxi Dress
 
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I absolutely love the style of this swimsuit. It covers my belly with the high waist bottoms but gives me “Marilyn Monroe” vibes lol. I have 3 different colors/patterns and you can find a lot more by clicking the link 💕 This blue & white tankini...
Womens Ruffled Tankini Tummy Control Swimwear
 
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Another favorite swimsuit of mine. It covers my tummy and hips but also looks great and gives me that poolside confidence I still need at 45 💕
BMJL Women's One Piece Mesh Tummy Control Swimsuit
 
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This tank top is designed with 4 buttons on the chest, buttoned up can be used as a square neck tank top to show your casual wear style. Unbuttoned, it can be used as a v-neck top, showing your sexy style. I love the drawstring on the side.  You can untie for a loose-fitting tank or tie/pull tight to have a more fitted look.  Several colors to choose from. And yes, I have 6 of these!!  Perfect to pair with jeans or shorts.
2 Pack Sleeveless Henley Tops
 
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These racerback tanks are soooo comfortable + you can choose from 45 different colors and prints.
Vintage Graphic Tank Tops
 
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Another one of my favorite tanks with cute graphics and super comfortable.  They also have ~30 prints/colors to choose from.
Tank Tops - Loose Fit
 
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This 100% high quality natural cotton shirt is perfect for warm, humid weather!  8 colors to choose from and perfect to pair with just about anything!
Short Sleeve Casual Button Down Shirt
 
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100% Cotton and so so soft! This shirt adds a feminin look to your wardrobe but it is also perfect for the humid warm weather.  Several colors/prints to choose from.  The blue & white striped one is probably my favorite.
Button Down Shirt with Short Cap Sleeve
 
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I love these pants!!  Willit has several colors to choose from + you can choose from a 27" inseam up to a 33" inseam (I'm short so it is soooo hard to find a 27"inseam!!)  Perfect pants for the humid warm weather!
Willit Women's Linen Pants
 
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If you want prefer a comfortable pair of loose fitting shorts over denim shorts, I highly recommend these.  Several colors and prints to choose from and go great with the tank tops listed above.
Loose Shorts with Drawstring Waist and Pockets
 
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This oversized, distressed look, denim jacket is perfect for when the sun goes down AND comfortable enough for those chilly flights/airports/restaurants. 3 colors and 4 styles to choose from. Style note: I pair mine with a black tank and black leggin...
Oversized Denim Jacket
 
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If you want to forego the tennis shoes for sandles but you know you are going to be doing a lot of walking, these are a great option.  I love the arch support (I have high arches) and the comfort of tennis shoes.
Arch Support Walking Sandals with Ankle Strap
 
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I highly recommend these for anyone that plans to go on the tours in Puerto Rico.  Lightweight, breathable but also comfortable and non-slip.  If you are going to be walking a lot, these are perfect for that.
Hike Non-Slip Breathable Barefoot Shoes
 
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These espadrille style wedge sandles are a Carribean vacation staple.  Wear them with linen pants and a cute tank and head out to dinner and dancing at a local restaraunt.
The Drop Women's Listilla Espadrille Wedge Sandal

Travel Gear & Accessories: Function Meets Style

Smart gear makes every trip smoother. Choose a lightweight backpack, a crossbody bag with anti-theft features, and packing cubes to stay organized. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle, quick-dry towel, and portable charger for long adventure days. �...

 
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UV Blocking sunglasses are a must for any beach day but, if you have blue eyes like me… They are perfect for every day.  These come as a pack of 4 so you can mix and match your outfit.
4 Pcs UV Blocking Sunglasses
 
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The reef-friendly formula is formulated without Oxybenzone or Octinoxate to help protect fragile reef ecosystems. Plus it comes in TSA Approved travel size of 3 fl oz.
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
 
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These handcrafted sun hats are perfect for tucking in your beachbag or your everyday bag.  Several colors and styles to choose from.
Straw Hats for Women - Foldable
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This is one of my favorite backpacks for a short hike or if I'm touring a new city.  Lots of colors and patterns to choose from.  It's lightweight and waterproof which are a must for me.
Small 10L Packable Lightweight Daypack
 
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Made of 100% Recycled materials, the Dock & Bay Beach Towel is a perfect addition to your travel bag.  It is lightweight and compact so it will fit in your day pack as well.  Lots of colors and patterns to choose from.
Dock & Bay Quick Dry Beach Towel - Large
 
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Keeping a  refillable water bottle on hand is always a great idea. However, while major tourist areas often have reliable water, some parts of the island have experienced infrastructure problems and water quality violations, so individual water systems can vary...
Sahara Sailor Motivational Leak-Proof Bottle
 
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I prefer these over anything that has DEET (it makes me sneeze like crazy). Plus, I can throw a few in my backpack or purse and always be ready for mosquitos (yep, I'm allergic to those too lol)
Cliganic 10 Pack DEET-Free Mosquito Bands
 
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Not only is this set super cute, but the waterproof  pouch is perfect for keeping your cell phone protected on hikes throught the rain forest and while at the waterfalls.  8 different colors/patterns to choose from.
Lilly Pulitzer Water Resistant Vinyl Beach Pouch

Safety Essentials: Confidence Is Your Compass

Puerto Rico is welcoming and safe for solo travelers, but smart safety gear builds peace of mind. Pack a door-stop alarm, RFID wallet, and a small first-aid kit. Add reflective scrunchies or wristbands for evening walks and a personal safety alarm fo...

 
Catherine Williams profile picture
I can not say enough about these personal safety alarms!!  I think I link them in every post and article I write.  I definately suggest getting one.  They aren't just great for when you travel, but for anytime you are out walking alone.
She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm for Women
 
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Another favorite item I have for when I travel.  It honestly just gives me that extra sense of security in hotel rooms.  It is worth grabbing one to keep in your travel bag.
Portable Door Lock & 120dB Alarm Set
 
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I love this minimalist wallet.  Easily store a card or 2 + your ID and you can also tuck some cash in it.  It is small enough that you can keep it hidden in your pack or under clothes.
Minimalist Slim Pop Up Wallet RFID Block
 
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I love this crossbody bag.  It dresses up your outfit but also keeps everything close to you and safe.  Perfect for when you go out to dinner, shopping, or dancing.
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
 
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Hands down my top choice for a first-aid kit that I can take ANYWHERE with me!!!  These kits are my go-to must have item when I'm packing for any trip and I have one in my vehicle and purse. :)
Portable Travel First Aid Kit - Multi Color

Beauty & Wellness: Island Glow on the Go

Keep your self-care simple and sun-friendly. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, hydrating skincare, and after-sun aloe for tropical days. Bring humidity-proof hair products and a compact makeup kit that feels fresh, not heavy. 💡 Tip: A foldable straw hat and...

 
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I love this set! TSA ready and compatible with all skin types.  e.l.f always has some of the best products at an affordable price.  These are perfect for a gym bag too.
e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Jet Set Kit
 
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The built-in toothpaste compartment holds up to a 7 day supply and the all in one design eliminates the need for seperate tubes.  You can also throw one of these in your gym bag as well as your purse when you aren't traveling.
Travel Toothbrush with Built-in Toothpaste
 
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If you don't already have one, go check these out.  7 piece kit that slides right into your bag.  You never know when your going to break a nail or need some tweezers :)
Manicure Set - 7 Pieces
 
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Hair ties are a MUST for me!  I love these!  They hold my long hair no matter what is going on and they don't break like some other hair ties do.
Hair Ties for All Hair | Tight Grip & Non-Slip
 
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I love these refillable silicone bottles.  They are perfect for shampoo, conditioner, body wash, sunscreen, and just about anything else you can think of.  Rather than buying a lot of travel sized shampoos, etc., I just fill them with the shampoo I have on hand.
Mrsdry TSA Approved 3oz Travel Bottles

Tech & Capture Gear: Document the Magic

Every solo adventure deserves to be remembered. Bring a compact camera or phone tripod, waterproof pouch, and extra SD card or power bank to keep your memories safe. If you’re exploring the rainforest or beach, waterproof phone gear is a must. 💡 Tip...

 
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Yesim received 4.4 out of 5 stars from Trust Pilot and is available in almost every country.  Use my code: FALLY20 to receive a 20% discount on the first purchase of an eSIM.  I highly recommend this company.
eSim Rates for Puerto Rico
 
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Convert a public network(wired/wireless) to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. Fits in the palm of your hand and is a perfect travel accessory.  I don't have this yet, but it has a lot of great reviews so it is definately on my list of things to buy.
GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 Opal Portable WiFi Router
 
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The language spoken in Puerto Rico is Spanish, however, most people also speak English.  Reguardless, Google Translate is always great to have on your phone just in case.
Google Translate
 
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Always download a map to use offline.  My go to is Google Maps, but I also use Google My Maps and download to my iPad before a trip.
Download areas & navigate offline in Google Maps
 
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There's nothing worse than being out on a tour, taking pics, and your phone battery is at 10%….  I always keep my mini power bank with me for those moments.  You don't ever want to miss a photo op or be without a phone line (just thinking about that gives me anxiety haha)
INIU 45W 20000mAh Portable Charger USB-C
 
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Don't miss a perfect photo opp.  Check out these compact cameras.
Best Compact Cameras for Travel Photography (2025)

Planner & Journal Tools

For the detail-oriented traveler (that’s you 💫). Use your Coastline + Castles Travel Toolkit to plan itineraries, jot memories, and stay organized from take-off to touchdown. 💡 Tip: Keeping a mini travel journal turns memories into momentum for you...

 
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Explore Puerto Rico with confidence, calm, and coastal charm. This beautifully designed interactive travel guide blends everything you need for a meaningful solo adventure - from clickable itineraries to printable planning tools - all created by Coas...
Puerto Rico 7-Day Solo Travel Guide + Canva Companion Toolkit | Coastline + Castles
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Whether you’re embarking on your first solo getaway or adding another adventure to your personal journey, Puerto Rico’s unique blend of history, safety, and energy makes it the ideal place to start the new year under the sun.
Why Puerto Rico Belongs on Every Solo Woman’s 2026 Travel List